Why is Diovan prescribed?

Diovan is one of a new class of blood pressure medications called angiotensin II receptor antagonists. Diovan works by preventing the hormone angiotensin II from narrowing the blood vessels, which tends to raise blood pressure. Diovan may be prescribed alone or with other blood pressure medications, such as diuretics that help the body get rid of excess water. Diovan HCT provides just such a combination. It contains Diovan plus the common diuretic hydrochlorothiazide.

Diovan also has a stimulative effect on the heart and is prescribed for heart failure in patients who can't tolerate another type of medication called ACE inhibitors.

Side effects

• Decreased kidney function
  
  
• Changes in the levels of other salts in the blood
  
  
• Decreased blood potassium level
  
  
• Nausea
  
  
• Pain in arm or leg
  
  
• Chest pain
  
  
• Diarrhoea
  
  
• Inflammation of the sinuses (sinusitis)
  
  
• Respiratory tract infections
  
  
• Cough
  
  
• Back pain
  
  
• Fatigue
  
  
• Inflammation of the nose or throat (nasopharyngitis)
  
  
• Dizziness
  
  
• Headache
  
  

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Diovan (Valsartan)

Check with your doctor before combining Diovan with salt substitutes that contain potassium, or with diuretics that leave potassium in the body, including the following:

Amiloride (Midamor)
Spironolactone (Aldactone)
Triamterene (Dyrenium)

The hydrochlorothiazide in Diovan (Valsartan) HCT may interact with a variety of drugs. Be sure to check with your doctor before combining Diovan HCT with the following:

Alcohol
Cholestyramine (Questran)
Colestipol (Colestid)
Corticosteroids such as Lopressor, hydrocortisone and prednisone
Glipizide (Glucotrol)
Glyburide (Diabeta, and Naprosyn
Other blood pressure medications

What should I watch for while taking valsartan?

What does my medication look like?

Valsartan is available with a prescription under the brand name Diovan (Valsartan). Other brand or generic formulations may also be available. Ask your pharmacist any questions you have about this medication, especially if it is new to you.

• Diovan (Valsartan) 320 mg-dark greyish violet, almond-shaped tablets
• Diovan (Valsartan) 160 mg-grey-orange, almond-shaped tablets
• Diovan (Valsartan) 80 mg-pale red, almond-shaped tablets

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